Divorce Reconciliation
Before taking the legal steps to end a marriage, many couples consider whether reconciliation is possible.
At Eric M. Willie, P.C. Austin Divorce Lawyer, we often start consultations by asking if a couple has tried marriage counseling or would consider it before moving forward.
It surprises some people that an Austin divorce lawyer would recommend counseling, but our focus is on helping people make the best long-term decisions, not rushing them into divorce court.
Reconciliation before divorce offers a chance to reflect, communicate, and possibly repair the relationship before entering the courtroom. In Texas, the law allows this, giving spouses the opportunity to pause the divorce process while they explore options together.
If you’re feeling unsure about moving forward with divorce, you’re not alone. It’s common for couples to question whether separation is the right path. You may benefit from speaking with a lawyer who understands the legal side and also supports your interest in saving the relationship if that’s still on the table.
How Divorce Reconciliation Works in Texas
Divorce reconciliation means both spouses are willing to work on the marriage during or before the divorce process. This may involve open conversations, professional support, or pausing the legal proceedings to give things another try.
Under Texas law, a mandatory 60-day waiting period is imposed before a divorce is finalized. This 60-day waiting period starts when the divorce petition is filed; the purpose is to allow both parties time for reconciliation or negotiation. However, the court may waive the waiting period in certain family violence cases.
Couples sometimes attempt reconciliation after filing due to emotional stress, pressure from family, or a shared desire to protect children from conflict. Others seek to clarify whether the relationship has truly run its course, and it’s time to call it quits.
Divorce Therapy Near You: Finding the Right Help
Looking for divorce therapy near you can be a turning point. Having a neutral third party, such as a marriage therapist or counselor, can make it easier to discuss issues without blame. Therapy doesn’t guarantee that a marriage will be saved, but it does give couples the tools to make decisions with clarity and respect.
In Austin and across Texas, licensed professionals specialize in working with couples facing divorce. Many offer short-term or trial reconciliation programs, including in-person and online options. Some focus on helping couples decide whether to stay together or part on respectful terms, rather than trying to fix every problem.
Legal and emotional support often go hand in hand. A family law attorney can explain your rights, options for pausing a case, or how to set boundaries that support your emotional and legal well-being during reconciliation.
Can Judges Order Counseling in Texas Divorce Cases?
Texas Family Code Section 6.505 gives judges the authority to require counseling before finalizing a divorce, but that authority is rarely exercised. In most cases, judges view court-ordered counseling as an inefficient use of time and money once a divorce has already been filed.
Section 6.505(b) also allows a judge to require the appointed counselor to submit a written report addressing whether reconciliation is reasonably possible and whether additional counseling might help. A judge may then order continued counseling, including sessions focused on issues affecting children during divorce litigation.
The statute does not set any minimum education, licensing, or training standards for the court-appointed counselor.
While a court can require someone to attend counseling sessions, it cannot force that person to meaningfully engage in the process or attempt reconciliation. Even therapists generally agree that repairing a struggling marriage is challenging when both spouses are willing to participate. When one spouse has already decided to end the marriage, mandatory counseling is unlikely to yield any meaningful benefit.
Should You Try Reconciliation Before Divorce?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some couples can rebuild trust and continue their marriage. Others reach a mutual agreement that a clean break is best, with less conflict and fewer regrets. Attempting to reconcile before divorce can help couples make that decision with more confidence.
Here are a few things to consider:
- Are both of you open to working on the relationship?
- Is safety or abuse a concern?
- Have you tried therapy or mediation?
- Are legal deadlines approaching that could impact your choices?
An experienced divorce attorney can walk you through what reconciliation means from a legal standpoint and shed some light on the path to either divorce or reconciliation. This often includes timelines, paperwork, and your rights, whether you continue with the case or dismiss it.
Talk With a TX Divorce Lawyer Who Supports Reconciliation
If you’re exploring divorce reconciliation, it helps to speak with someone who understands Texas law and respects your hope for a peaceful resolution. Whether you’re ready to pause your case, pursue counseling, or just want to better understand your options, our team can help.
We’ve worked with many clients who are unsure about what comes next. We’re here to guide, not push. With over 20 years of experience handling family law matters, we have helped individuals and families make informed decisions during challenging transitions. We are prepared to apply that experience to your case.
Call 737-260-5159 or use the contact form to schedule a consultation with an Austin divorce attorney who supports your goals, whatever they may be.
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Reviews of Our Top-Rated Austin, Texas Divorce Attorneys
“This firm represented me in my divorce for almost a year and we won all of our hearings. Mr. Willie is an outstanding attorney who know the ins and outs of both family law and the court system. You couldn’t ask for a better lawyer. Highly recommend.” – Valorie Bravo
“I met with Eric and the hospitality was great. He broke everything down to me perfectly and I greatly appreciated it. He is willing to fight for everything you want to accomplish during your tough times. I would definitely recommend him to anyone needing a Family Attorney!” – Christopher Colter
“I found Mr. Willie both competent and professional. His strategy to address a modification petition was sound and successful. What impressed me most was his matter of fact way of analyzing the issues. He was candid and kept things simple as well as understandable. No confusing legal talk, just a clear, direct and sensible manner of approaching the conflict. Further, if you’re looking for a lawyer that will go the extra mile, Eric Willie is your man. We encountered a filing issue due to the COVID shutdown and he stayed with it until completion, proving himself a loyal and devoted attorney. I remain grateful for Mr. Willie’s services and would recommend him for any family law proceedings.” – Freddy Erdman
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